World powers urged to support rights movements

Afraz Naseer(Geneva)
Jammu & Kashmir based human rights group, Press for Peace (PFP) has called upon world powers to support democratic and public rights movements in underdeveloped parts of the world, particularly legitimized freedom struggle of the people of Jammu and Kashmir in order to create an atmosphere of peace and prosperity in the volatile South Asian region.
Eminent Kashmiri peace activist and Executive Director Press for Peace (PFP), Khawaja Zafar Iqbal was talking with the representatives of human rights organizations during his visit to Geneva. Afraz Naseer Khan , Member PFP International Affairs Desk was also present on this occasion.
The PFP delegation informed different non governmental organizations (NGOs) and peace organisations about latest situation of human rights in South Asia, particularly about gross violations of human rights in divided state of Jammu and Kashmir, Balochistan and other parts of the sub-continent. The PFP delegation also highlighted the sufferings of Kashmir earthquake victims.
Referring support of some of the influential world powers to military dictatorship in Pakistan, the PFP head urged upon Western governments to support peoples’ rights movements and democratic elements, rather than sponsoring unelected governments and dictators.
“Despite backing dictators in developing nations, the aspirations and decisions of people must be honoured by world champions of democracy”, he maintained.
Referring composite dialogue between India and Pakistan for settlement of issues including permanent resolution of Kashmir dispute, Khawaja Zafar Iqbal said the real objective of peace could only be achieved through participation of people of Kashmir in the dialogue process.
“India and Pakistan must respect the will of the people of Kashmir in order to achieve peace and tranquility in the region”, he urged.
The PFP head appreciated the role of international relief agencies for the welfare and rehabilitation of earthquake victims in northern Pakistan and demanded “international community must monitor the ongoing reconstruction process to check alleged corruption and inefficiency of governments of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir.”

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